MEET THE FOUNDER

Meet Shirley Manuel - concert pianist, teacher, educator, musician, performer, and the
beloved owner of Ssams School of Music since 2016. She lives in Pune, India where she
has been teaching for over 20 years. Shirley’s journey with music began very early

at 5 years old, when her father Samson Manuel who is a professional guitarist introduced

her to music. Shirley is forever grateful to him for being such an important influence and

mentor to her and to both her parents for believing in her to pursue big dreams. 

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Her journey as a music educator began at a mere age of 12 when her skill and elegance in playing the piano was discovered by a neighbour. A dedicated teacher today, Shirley understands her responsibility in shaping young minds and brings her passion for music to life through her thoroughly thought out and well-planned curriculum that is carefully tailored according to each student’s needs and abilities. Her profound understanding of the art of music as well as of the piano as an instrument of expression greatly impacts the way she teaches, guides, and trains both students and teachers in various musical subjects. Through her many years of teaching students of all ages and skill levels, Shirley has developed a holistic teaching approach that combines musical knowledge, technical expertise, and a nurturing environment. Shirley’s talents don’t stop at the piano, and she also has a plethora of knowledge and experience in guitar (classical and plectrum), western voice, theory of music, as well as music history and appreciation. Apart from owning her own academy, she has worked as a Teacher Success Head in WhiteHatJr and as an Associate Director in Rebecca Music Academy. 

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Shirley’s unwavering love for and dedication to piano and music have led to her being the proud recipient of many awards and accolades. A few of her achievements include winning Con Brio - a national piano competition for advanced level students as well as the Trinity College London Best Candidate Award for Grade 5 Electronic Keyboard in her city. Miss Manuel has performed at multiple concerts, organised musical events, and also been invited to judge music performances at various educational institutions across Pune. 

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Beyond her accomplishments as a soloist, Shirley has recorded her own album named ‘Namahparammangala’ which is a collection of Christian hymns and songs performed on the grand piano. Apart from a formal Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and a Diploma in Interior Design, Shirley also holds a Grade 8 in Electronic Keyboard and Theory of Music, and a Grade 6 in Classical Guitar. She has also attended mentorship programs and master classes under renowned music educators around the world. Although a well-established music educator, Shirley believes that one never stops learning and is currently pursuing a Licentiate of Trinity College London for Piano Performance.

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Shirley is a go-getter and believes in always fixing her eyes on the bigger picture. Her faith is very important to her, and she feels extremely grateful and humbled for the talents and opportunities that she has been blessed with. She is a firm believer that one must always pursue their dreams and focus on their goals no matter what obstacles come along, because that is the only thing that matters in the end. One of her favourite parts of pursuing a life of music and teaching is the quality of interactions she is able to have with people from all walks of life. She is extremely passionate about her work in music and has big dreams to take it to the next level.